This course is part of the Discovering Science program, which will enable you to learn about the extraordinary world of everyday chemistry, and earn 10 credits from the University of Leeds.

Why join the course?

Without science writing, science could not really exist. By recording experiments and publishing the results of studies and discoveries, scientists can share their important work, and find an engaged audience.

Science writing takes many forms: from press releases to video scripts. You’ll learn about different types of science writing, and look at the factors which you need to consider to write a story.

You’ll discover how to gather accurate information and relevant opinions as well as tips on how to conduct a successful interview.

0:10Skip to 0 minutes and 10 secondsHow is science communicated in today's media? This course will help you understand how the latest scientific developments affecting our everyday lives are communicated through mainstream media, examine high-profile news stories and reports in science journals, led by science journalist, Catherine Sanderson, reflect on the power of blogs and videos as influential communication tools, learn top tips for conducting interviews, and find out what questions you should ask, so that you can write a balanced report. Using this analysis, identify the right angle for your story and write a compelling hook that will grab and retain your readers' attention. The techniques explored in this course will help you develop your skills as an engaging science writer, communicating with both professional and public audiences.

What topics will you&nbspcover?

Examine the different forms science writing can take, and the sources for finding out about science.

Examine the factors to consider when preparing to write your own science story, such as the angle, who your audience is, and why they will be interested in a story.

Understand how to structure a narrative.

Examine the different components you need to write for news articles, press releases and blogs, such as the headline for a news article.

Understand the importance of balance in a news story and how to achieve it.

Explore how to use video stories to communicate scientific information to different audiences.

Explore interviewing techniques to use before and during a broadcast.

Write a news article, blog post or video script; and review and comment on the work of other learners.

When would you like to&nbspstart?

Available now

4 September 2017

2 October 2017

Date to be announced

What will you&nbspachieve?

By the end of the course, you'll be able to...

Explain what science writing is and identify different types.

Identify how to source examples of science writing and evaluate them.

Evaluate how science is communicated through the media.

Identify how to define an audience, angle and the top-line in science writing.

Demonstrate how to structure a narrative.

Identify the appropriate use of reporting and interviewing techniques.

Develop a news article, blog post or video script.

Reflect on the power of science blogs and videos as communication tools.

Who is the course&nbspfor?

The course is suitable for anyone with a general interest in science; no previous knowledge or experience is required.

If you are working in the field of science and would like to practice and improve your science writing skills, this course is designed to support you as a professional. By completing all aspects of the course you will have achieved 10 hours of CPD time.

What do people say about this course?

I joined this course because I wanted to try something different... No one at college taught us how to write about science in an "informal" way, they always focused on research papers, and I feel that, as scientists, it is one of our tasks to spread science to society. Thanks to this course I have learnt that there are many possibilities for science writing, and I have also been able to share and discuss my thoughts with people from all around the world. It was very enriching and totally worth it! Thanks a lot!!

If you’re taking a course for free you have access to the course for its duration + 14 days, regardless of when you join. If you upgrade the course you have access for as long as the course exists on FutureLearn.